Finding ASTM F2100 equipment through Air / Water / Vapour Permeability

The ASTM F2100 standard ensures the safety and performance of face masks by specifying requirements for bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE), fluid resistance, and flammability. To meet these criteria, laboratories must use instruments that align with the standard’s testing procedures, such as the Masks Bacterial Filtration Efficiency Tester (TNG1047), the 45 Degree Flammability Tester (TNG1062), the Face Mask Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester (TNG1044), and the Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester (TNG1049).

Instrument Selection Based on ASTM F2100 Requirements

The ASTM F2100 standard outlines specific tests for respiratory protective equipment, including BFE, fluid resistance, and flammability. Each test corresponds to a particular instrument category. For instance, the Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing category includes instruments used for BFE and fluid resistance testing, such as the TNG1047 and TNG1044. The Flammability Testing category includes the TNG1062, which is designed to assess the flammability of materials under controlled conditions. The TNG1049 is also part of the Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing category, though it lacks detailed specifications, indicating it may be used for similar but less specified fluid resistance tests.

Specifications Supporting ASTM F2100 Compliance

The TNG1047 is essential for BFE testing, which is a core requirement of ASTM F2100. Its specifications, such as the Sample Flow Rate of A and B at 28.3 L/min, ensure that the test conditions match the standard’s requirement for consistent airflow during BFE measurement. Additionally, the Spray flow of (8～10) L/min supports the application of aerosol particles, simulating real-world exposure conditions. These parameters help ensure that the test results are reliable and repeatable, aligning with the standard’s emphasis on accuracy and consistency.

The TNG1062 is used to evaluate flammability, a critical aspect of ASTM F2100. Its Ignition time of (1 ± 0.05) s and Flame height of 16 mm, adjustable ensure that the test conditions are standardized, allowing for accurate assessment of a material’s flammability characteristics. These specifications are crucial for determining whether a material meets the flammability resistance requirements outlined in the standard.

Fluid Resistance Testing with TNG1044 and TNG1049

The TNG1044 is designed for fluid resistance testing, which is another key requirement of ASTM F2100. Its Blood spraying distance of (300 ± 10) mm and Nozzle inner diameter of 0.84 mm ensure that the synthetic blood is applied under controlled conditions, simulating real-world exposure to bodily fluids. These specifications are vital for assessing the mask’s ability to resist fluid penetration, which is essential for protecting against splashes and sprays.

The TNG1049, while lacking detailed specifications, is part of the same testing category, suggesting it is used for similar fluid resistance tests. Its inclusion in the Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing category indicates that it supports the broader requirements of ASTM F2100, even if its exact parameters are not provided.

Instrument models referenced

• TNG1047 Masks Bacterial Filtration Efficiency Tester (Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing). Published specifications include Main parameters Scope; Sample Flow Rate of A 28.3L/min; Sample Flow Rate of B 28.3L/min.
• TNG1062 45 Degree Flammability Tester (Flammability Testing). Published specifications include Time display and accuracy 0 ~ 999.9 s, 0.1 s; Ignition time (1 ± 0.05) s; Dimension of holder outside 170 * 101 mm, inside 152 * 38 mm.
• TNG1044 Face Mask Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester (Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing). Published specifications include Blood spraying distance: (300 ± 10) mm; Nozzle inner diameter: 0.84 mm; Nozzle length: 12.7 mm.
• TNG1049 Synthetic Blood Penetration Tester (Air / Water / Vapour Permeability Testing).